Poly-B Pipe Replacement
Replace failing polybutylene plumbing in BC homes built 1985–1997. Insurance renewal and leak prevention.
Poly-B (polybutylene) plumbing was widely installed in Vancouver-area homes built between 1985 and 1997. Two decades later, the chlorine in BC water reacts with the pipe walls, causing brittleness, micro-cracks, and eventually catastrophic leaks. As of 2025, multiple BC insurers will not renew home insurance on Poly-B properties — replacement is now a transactional necessity, not just a maintenance choice.
We replace Poly-B with PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) — the modern standard, code-approved, 50-year warranty from major manufacturers. Typical scope: re-pipe all hot/cold supply lines from the manifold to every fixture, replace shutoff valves, drywall patch behind access points, pressure-test the new system.
Real Vancouver Poly-B replacement costs:
| Property type | Replacement cost | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Condo (1-bath, single-floor) | $4,000 – $8,000 | 2–3 days |
| Condo (2-bath) | $6,000 – $12,000 | 3–4 days |
| Townhouse (2 floors) | $8,000 – $14,000 | 4–6 days |
| SFH (single-floor 1,500 sqft) | $10,000 – $16,000 | 5–7 days |
| SFH (2-floor 2,500 sqft) | $14,000 – $22,000 | 6–10 days |
| Luxury SFH (3-floor + ensuites) | $20,000 – $35,000+ | 10–14 days |
What's included: PEX-A or PEX-B re-pipe, all supply line connections, manifold installation, drywall patch (paint touch-up not included), pressure test, BC permit + inspection.
What's extra: Drain/waste re-piping (separate scope), hot water tank replacement, fixture replacements, full repaint of touched walls.
Why now: insurers are tightening coverage every year. Get ahead of a forced replacement at the worst possible time (after a leak, with damage repair costs piled on top). We coordinate with your insurer if needed for renewal documentation.
What We Do
Why Us
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have Poly-B plumbing?+
Poly-B (polybutylene) was used in Vancouver-area homes built between 1985 and 1997. The pipes are usually grey or beige plastic, branded with markings like "PB-2110" or "QEST". If your home is from that era and has plastic supply lines, there is a good chance some or all of the plumbing is Poly-B.
Will my insurance cover Poly-B replacement in Vancouver?+
Most BC insurers will not pay to replace functioning Poly-B, but they will deny renewal or hike premiums until you replace it. We provide insurer-ready documentation after the Vancouver project completes — pressure test results, BC permit, PEX warranty — so you can return to your insurer for renewal at standard rates.
Can I stay in my home during a Poly-B re-pipe?+
Yes. We re-pipe section by section so you have water restored at the end of each working day. Plan for short shut-offs (2-4 hours) when each fixture group is connected over to PEX. We coordinate timing with you in advance.
Get a Quote for Poly-B Pipe Replacement
Let us transform your vision into reality with 20 years of experience.